Page 2 - BIJAGUA TOURIST GUIDE

Introduction
Bijagua de Upala is a center of development and a tourist destination presenting sustained growth. Tourist arrivals to the area are largely motivated by the natural attractions of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. This park offers a tour on the Mysteries of Tenorio trail where you can observe the Rio Celeste Waterfall, Teñideros, flora, fauna and more. Its natural beauties promise great adventures and an extraordinary time for visitors. In addition, the small community of Bijagua is strategic from the point of view of the flow of tourists, as it is in the middle of two regions: La Fortuna of San Carlos and North Guanacaste.
The region has a series of natural attractions such as the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, and water resources such as Rio Frio and Rio Celeste. These attractions are complemented by the presence of a socio-cultural resource of great value, such as the Maleku indigenous reserve, the only reserve of its kind in the entire northern part of the country, as well as rural and wellness tourism activities.
Maleku indigenous territory
The indigenous population is mainly located in the canton of Guatuso, within the “Maleku indigenous territory”. Currently, its population is approximately 1,400 people, located in three settlements or palenques: Margarita, El Sol and Tonjibe, where they live. The El Sol palenque is located 4 km from San Rafael de Guatuso; Margarita is located 6 km east and 2 km southeast of San Rafael and Tonjibe is located 2 km from the Margarita palenque.
All of the palenques have quality basic services and are easily accessible year-round due to good road infrastructure.
A visit to the Maleku indigenous territory is a must due to its rich cultural tourism, traditions, dances, food and colorful and unique handicrafts.
Tenorio National Park and Rio Celeste Waterfall
Another must is a visit to the Rio Celeste waterfall and the Teñideros that turn its waters into a light blue color (product of the convergence of the Quebrada Agria River, that is loaded with a very acidic ph (low) and the Buena Vista River, that is loaded with aluminosilicates.
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